A peak flow meter
is a useful tool for objectively measuring the severity of asthma. The number obtained is called a Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR).
The PEFR indicates the degree of obstruction or narrowing of the airways. The PEFR is the amount of air that can be forcefully exhaled.
Each individual asthma patient has a predicted rate based on height and age. However, many doctors would rather use the person's "personal best" value. This number represents the highest number obtained when a patient is feeling healthy and normal.
This procedure can help determine when asthma medicine or a change in treatment is necessary. In order to ensure accuracy, the test must be performed using the proper techniques.
The following steps outline the proper procedure for using your peak flow meter:
- Place indicator at the base of the numbered scale.
- Stand up.
- Take a deep breath.
- Place the meter in the mouth and close your lips around the mouthpiece.
- Blow out as hard and as fast as you possibly can.
- Write down the highest number achieved.
- Repeat the process two more times.
- Save the highest of the three numbers achieved.
How often should I check my peak flow?
The peak flow should be checked once a day (morning or evening) if the numbers do not change much from time to time. When you are doing well you can use the peak flow meter two times during the week and once on the weekend.
We suggest you check your peak flow number more often when you or your child:
- Begin to wake at night with asthma symptoms
- Are having more daytime asthma symptoms
- Have a respiratory infection (a cold)
- When you are sick or have asthma symptoms - check your peak flow at least twice a day (once in the morning and once in the evening).
- When you need to use "rescue medicine." This is medicine prescribed by your doctor to be used for quick relief of asthma symptoms. If you can, check your peak flow before taking the rescue medicine. Then check it again 20-30 minutes later.
Always consult with your doctor when determining what medicine or change in treatment is necessary.
Get more information and purchase a peak flow meter.
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